Ooty

Ooty City Tour Guide

  • Area: 30.67 sq. km
  • Population: 81,763
  • Altitude: 2,286 metres above sea level
  • Languages: Tamil, English
  • STD Code: 0423
  • Best Time to Visit: February - May and September - November

Introduction to Ooty - In Tamil Nadu

Nestled among the hills of Dodabetta, Snowdon, Elk Hill, and Club Hill in the Nilgiri ranges, Ooty (also known as Ootacamund or Udhagamandalam) is the queen of southern hill stations and a popular tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. The history of Ooty dates back to around 900 years when it was ruled by Vishnu Vardhana, the Hoysala king from AD 1104 to 1141. The city also finds mention in the writings of Jacome Ferico, the first European to visit this place in 1603. In 1799, this hilly region came under the control of the British East India Company. The British established Ooty as the summer headquarters of the Madras government, building a government house and setting up cottages and clubs with facilities for tennis, golf, and horse riding. The establishment of numerous tea estates further enhanced Ooty's presence on the tourist map of India. With a maximum temperature of 25°C, Ooty offers a pleasant climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination from February to May and September to November.

Sightseeing: Places to Visit in Ooty

Explore the town and enjoy the scenic surroundings. The Botanical Garden is a must-visit tourist spot and a source of information about the region's flora. For those who enjoy boat rides and fishing, a visit to Ooty Lake is essential. Other fascinating viewpoints include Lamb's Rock, Kodanadu, and Dodabetta Peak, all offering stunning views of the surrounding plains and hills.

Excursions: Places Nearby Ooty

Excursions around Ooty provide an equally interesting experience. A visit to the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary gives you a glimpse of the region's flora and fauna. Trips to the nearby hill stations of Kotagiri and Coonoor complement your visit to Ooty. Other notable places for excursions include Kalhatty Waterfalls, Sim's Park, Dolphin's Nose, Mukurthi, and Avalanche.